Micheál Martin has led tributes to former Lord Mayor of Cork Donal Counihan, who has died following a short illness.
Mr Counihan passed away at Marymount Hospice on Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across political and civic life. He was a long-standing member of Fianna Fáil and a prominent figure in Cork public life for decades.
In a statement, the Taoiseach described him as “a tremendous community activist and cared deeply about his community and city”. He added: “Donal was passionate about Cork. He was a wonderful public representative and was in politics for all the right reasons, to improve the lives of the people and community he represented.”
Mr Martin also paid a personal tribute, saying Mr Counihan “was a wonderful public representative, a warm and convivial man who left a significant mark on Cork and on Fianna Fáil” and described him as “a wise and valued friend” who would be greatly missed.
Mr Counihan’s political career spanned more than three decades. A party activist from 1959, he began canvassing for former Taoiseach Éamon de Valera as a young boy. He was first elected to Cork Corporation in 1979, going on to represent the south east ward of the city across multiple terms.
He served as Lord Mayor of Cork from 2007 to 2008, and remained actively involved in both politics and community life long after his term in office.
The current Lord Mayor, Fergal Dennehy, said he learned of Mr Counihan’s passing with “deep sadness”. He described him as someone who was “committed to public service, to local government and to Cork city.”
Reflecting on his time in office, Councillor Dennehy said Mr Counihan’s term as Lord Mayor was marked by dignity and integrity, adding that he had strong ties to voluntary groups, charities and local organisations, and was a consistent supporter of social, cultural and sporting initiatives across the city.
He added that Mr Counihan would be remembered not only for his time in office, but for how he treated people, saying: “He was always open and approachable.” He continued: “His dedication to Cork and to its people will long be remembered, and his contribution to civic life remains an important part of the city’s story.” He also extended his sympathies, saying: “I would like to extend my condolences to his family, his friends, and all who knew him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Tributes were also paid by Labour councillor Peter Horgan, who said he was saddened by the news and noted that Mr Counihan “always had a kind word” whenever they met.
A book of condolences is set to be opened at Cork City Hall later this week to allow members of the public to pay their respects.
Mr Counihan, who was late of Ballinlough and Blackrock in Cork, is survived by his wife Breda, his children Niamh, Gillian and Kieran, his siblings Marie and Sr Bride, and his five grandchildren, along with extended family and friends.
He will lie in repose at Temple Hill Funeral Home on Thursday from 4pm to 5pm.
A requiem mass will take place at St Michael’s Church at 12 noon on Friday, followed by burial at St Finbarr’s Cemetery.
